NXNE takes place June 10-14, 2026, at venues throughout Toronto. Leading up to this year’s festival, we’re spotlighting some of the artists playing Billboard Canada LIVE shows this year. Frank Walker plays June 11 at SOUNDSTAGE at the W Toronto. Find the full NXNE schedule and buy passes here.
Frank Walker has found his creative Oasis.
The Toronto DJ, producer, and electronic musician recently released his sophomore album, Oasis, to much anticipation. Dropping via Palm Tree Records—an imprint of Sony Music Entertainment founded by Kygo—the album marks a vibrant and uplifting addition to Walker’s discography. Building on the momentum of his debut album, Origin (2024), Walker sought to chart a new course for his sound that blends both nostalgic elements with fresh, contemporary influences.
Reflecting on the creative journey, Walker describes feeling as if he had entered a “creative desert.” “I knew what I could do, but how was I going to fill that space [of not knowing where to go]? That’s where the name Oasis came from,” he shares with Billboard Canada. This title encapsulates his search for a sanctuary in sound—a place to explore familiar vibes while also daring to experiment with different tempos and collaborations.
The collection is quintessentially Frank Walker, enriched by the vibrant spirit reminiscent of EDM’s “golden era” in the mid-2010s. Yet, Walker is not just resting on past successes; he’s venturing into new terrains, experimenting with genres like speed garage and drum and bass. This evolution is largely attributed to collaborative efforts with artists like Ryos, ARTY, and Timmy Trumpet. Walker sees this process as both enriching and foundational: “You’re always picking up tips and tricks from these people and learning and growing.”
One standout feature of Oasis is its unique blending of country and EDM elements. Tracks such as “Lay It On Me,” featuring country star Josh Ross and Norma Jean Martine, exemplify this seamless fusion. Notably, this single climbed the Billboard Canada’s Airplay charts, landing in the top 10 of the CHR/Top 40 chart and continuing to resonate on both the Canada AC and Hot AC charts. Walker attributes this success to natural synergies between the genres: “There are very similar chord structures and tempos between country and dance.”
“I want to make those memories [for my fans] to say, ‘Hey, I remember the first time I heard this Frank Walker track. I was in this place having the best day,'” Walker elaborates. This desire to evoke memorable experiences reflects the heart of Walker’s mission: to create music that uplifts and inspires. As he recalls the uplifting feeling he experienced when first hearing Avicii’s “Wake Me Up,” Walker aims to replicate that euphoria for his own audience.
During the upcoming NXNE festival, Walker is particularly excited about his intimate performance at SOUNDSTAGE on June 11. This show represents his first full album showcase, allowing him to share the essence of Oasis in a personalized setting. “The intimate shows are where your true fans are going to be, and you really get to feel closer to people than at a festival stage,” Walker emphasizes.
In this cozy atmosphere, he plans to connect deeply with fans, both through his performance and a Q&A session. Walker appreciates the opportunity to engage with his audience, sharing insights about his creative process while also hearing how his songs resonate with them. “It’s always fun to talk about the creative process and hearing stories about how other people love the songs,” he notes, accentuating the unique bond that exists within live music.
Frank Walker is not only showcasing his musical evolution but also inviting listeners to be part of his journey as he presents Oasis live. As NXNE approaches, the anticipation builds—not just for the music, but for the memories that will inevitably be forged on that special night.
